Family Christmas Ornaments – A Handmade Christmas

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It’s week eight of my 16-week series titled A Handmade Christmas, and today I am sharing homemade Family Christmas Ornaments..

There’s something magical about creating handmade ornaments that celebrate the people we love most, our family. This year for A Handmade Christmas, I wanted to create a project that felt personal and timeless. These Family Christmas Ornaments made from air-dry clay are simple, elegant, and completely customizable.

Five ceramic house-shaped ornaments labeled with different family names and surrounded by green and gold Christmas ornaments and miniature trees on a light wood surface.
Four images show holiday-themed items: decorated cookies, vintage glass ornaments in a bowl, frosted cookies with tree designs, and a festive dining table setting with holiday decor.
Text logo reads: "MY 100 YEAR OLD HOME | A HANDMADE CHRISTMAS" in capitalized, gray letters on a white background.

Family Christmas Ornaments

Two house-shaped ornaments labeled "The Saeta Family" and "The Byrd Family" lie on a white surface with green ornaments and small decorative trees nearby.

They’re shaped like a little house — because home is truly where the heart is — and each one carries the name of a family. You can make one for your own tree, gift them to friends, or even tie them onto wrapped presents for a thoughtful finishing touch.

The best part? You don’t need a kiln or any fancy equipment. Just a few supplies, some time to let the clay dry, and a creative spirit.

Why I Love This Project

A white ceramic house ornament labeled "The Saeta Family" hangs from a railing decorated with green pine branches.

Every Christmas tree tells a story, and these ornaments add a personal chapter. They’re minimalist and classic, yet incredibly meaningful. Whether your family is large or small, newly formed or generations deep, this project captures that sense of togetherness we all crave during the holidays.

I’ve made several for our family … one for each of our sons’ families and one for ours. When I look at the tree, I see not just pretty ornaments, but a reflection of love, legacy, and all the memories we’ve made together over the years.

Plus, the soft matte finish of air-dry clay and the embossed lettering feel cute enough to rival anything you’d find at a boutique.

Materials You’ll Need

Plastic letter stamps in pink and green are arranged on a flat surface, with some letters assembled in holders and others scattered loosely.

Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start:

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Five nested metal house-shaped cookie cutters with a decorated gingerbread house cookie placed in the center.

House Cookie Cutters Shapes Set – 4 Pieces Gingerbread

Plastic cutters for Air Dry Clay featuring yellow grids with numbers, pink grids with uppercase letters, and several blue, green, and purple strips, all arranged on a white background.

225 Pcs Cookie Letter Number Stamp Set

A 10 lb (4.5 kg) package of Amaco Air Dry Clay with a red label, stating "Easy to Use" and "Made in USA.

Air Dry Modeling Clay

Hands use green plastic letter stamps to imprint text on clay, perfect for crafting personalized Christmas ornaments. On the right, a set of green stamps with lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols is arranged in rows.
Clay Stamps – Alphabet, Numbers & Symbols 
Ten wooden slats of varying thickness are arranged in a fan shape, with labeled measurements from 3mm to 12mm; an inset shows hands using two slats to roll out clay evenly for crafting Christmas ornaments.
10 Pcs Pottery Wooden Rolling Pin
A brass wax seal stamp with the letters "AM" and a wooden box, next to a stamped clay disc showing the same "AM" monogram—perfect for adding a personalized touch to holiday cards or Christmas ornaments.
Custom Pottery Stamp for Clay
A package of DAS modeling clay, red and white with a photo of clay being rolled and shaped into a flower.

DAS Air-Hardening Modeling Clay

Mod Podge

A small, white bottle labeled "Clay Glaze" with a blue label indicating it's a gloss varnish. The label shows art-related icons and states the volume as 100ml/3.4oz.

Air Dry Clay Varnish

A wooden dowel rod with thicker handles at both ends, displayed horizontally on a white background.
Maple Wood Rolling Pin – 1/4″
A fan arrangement of black and gray rectangular sandpaper sheets displayed on a white background.

24PCS Sand Paper Variety

18 Assorted Acrylic Paint Colors, 2oz each

You can find everything at most craft stores or order them online. I personally used Arteza air-dry clay, a set of vintage-style alphabet stamps, and a simple house-shaped cookie cutter I found on Amazon.

Step 1: Roll Out the Clay

A slab of clay is laid on a gridded surface, flanked by two wooden slats and a wooden board on the right.

Start by preparing your workspace. I like to work on parchment paper or a silicone mat so the clay doesn’t stick.

Cut off a piece of air-dry clay and knead it gently until it’s soft and pliable. Then use your rolling pin to roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness. I usually roll them 3/8″ thick. Try to keep it even — this helps the ornament dry consistently without cracking. I use clay rulers to keep the thickness even.

If you prefer a perfectly smooth surface, you can roll the clay between two sheets of parchment paper. For a more handmade, organic feel, leave subtle texture.

Step 2: Cut the House Shape

Two metal cookie cutters in the shape of houses placed on a light-colored, textured surface.
Metal house-shaped cookie cutter pressed into a sheet of clay, with one house shape already cut out beside the cutter.

Use your house-shaped cookie cutter to press firmly into the clay and lift away the excess. You should have a perfect house shape ready to become your ornament.

If you’re making several ornaments, this is the time to cut all of your shapes. Keep a small piece of plastic wrap handy to cover unused clay so it doesn’t dry out.

You can also slightly round the corners with your finger if you prefer a softer silhouette.

I ordered a stamp with my name and I use it on the back of all of my pottery projects. This one says Lsaeta. **DH – this is new

Four unglazed clay tiles shaped like houses, each stamped with the word "love" and a heart symbol, are arranged on a gridded work surface.

Step 3: Add the Family Name

Green and white clay pieces are scattered on a surface, with pink plastic letter stamps and teal handles positioned above them.
Five clay house shapes, four stamped with the word "THE," sit on a surface. A blue tool with pink letter stamps spelling "THE" is visible in the foreground.
Six clay plaques shaped like houses, each labeled with different family names: SAETA, MORRISH, BYRD, and EBNER, and the words “THE FAMILY” beneath each name.

This step is where your ornament comes to life! Using your alphabet stamps, carefully press the letters into the clay to spell out your family name.

I like to stamp the word “THE” in small letters above the family name and “FAMILY” below it — just like the ornament in the photo. For example:

THE SAETA FAMILY

Make sure to press evenly so each letter is visible but not too deep. If you make a mistake, simply roll out the clay again and start over.

A gray clay house shape with the words "THE SLOAN" stamped on it, resting on a light surface with a blue tool and pink letter stamps nearby.
A clay house-shaped plaque reads "THE SLOAN FAMILY," with a small green square covering part of the text.
A beige ceramic house-shaped plaque with the words "THE SLOAN FAMILY" engraved on the front.

You can also add a year (“EST. 2024”) or a heart impression for extra charm.

Step 4: Make the Hanging Hole

A hand holds a clay ornament shaped like a house with "THE SAETA FAMILY" stamped on it; similar ornaments labeled with different family names are in the background.

Use a straw or skewer to poke a small hole near the top corner of the house. This is where you’ll thread your jute twine later.

Make sure the hole is big enough for the twine or ribbon to fit through comfortably once the clay has dried.

Step 5: Smooth and Perfect the Edges

Six clay plaques shaped like houses, each labeled with different family names: SAETA, MORRISH, BYRD, and EBNER, and the words “THE FAMILY” beneath each name.

While the clay is still soft, gently smooth any rough edges with your fingertip or a damp cloth. Once the ornament has dried, you can also use fine-grit sandpaper to refine the edges.

If you want to add texture, now’s the time — you can press lace, burlap, or a piece of linen lightly into the clay for a subtle pattern.

Step 6: Making the Clay Beads

A large lump of clay sits above seven small clay balls arranged in a row on a gridded surface.
Clay house-shaped tags with family names, round clay beads, and a wooden stick arranged on a textured surface.

Although you can use wood or plastic beads, I chose to make my own. I painted them with acrylic brown paint and love how they turned out.

Eight round, clay beads with brown and white painted patterns are arranged on a white surface. Each bead has a central hole for stringing.

Step 7: Let the Clay Dry

Seven unpainted, house-shaped clay ornaments labeled with different family names and several small clay beads arranged on a white surface.

Lay your ornaments flat on parchment paper and let them dry completely. Depending on the brand of clay, drying usually takes 24 to 48 hours. Flip them occasionally to help them dry evenly and prevent curling.

I always cheat and put my air-dry clay in the oven at 250 degrees for about twenty minutes.

Once dry, they should feel firm and slightly lighter in color.

Step 8: Painting the Letters

Clay house-shaped tags with family names, round clay beads, and a wooden stick arranged on a textured surface.

I painted the letters with brow acrylic paint to give the words more depth. After doing this, I don’t think you need to! Too much effort for the result. Hehe.

While I love the simplicity of white clay, you can customize these ornaments with a touch of acrylic paint.

Try dry-brushing a little gold or silver over the stamped letters for a subtle highlight. You can also antique the edges with soft taupe paint for a vintage effect, or paint the entire ornament a pastel shade to match your holiday color palette.

If you do paint, allow it to dry thoroughly before sealing with Mod Podge or clay glaze.

Step 9: Seal and Finish

Six clay ornaments shaped like houses, each labeled with a different family name: BYRD, SAETA (three times), SLOAN, and MORASH.

To protect the clay and give it a polished look, brush a thin coat of Clay Glaze over the surface. This sealer provides the clay with a glossy coating.

Since these ornaments are hanging, be sure to add the glaze to both sides.

Four small, house-shaped ceramic pieces with the word "blest" engraved on them, arranged on a white surface.

This also helps protect the ornaments from humidity and adds a slight professional touch.

Step 10: Add the Twine and Bead

Three house-shaped ornaments with "The Morrish Family," "The Saeta Family," and "The Ebner Family" written on them, each hanging by a string with a decorative bead.

Cut a piece of jute twine about 10 inches long. Thread it through the hole and tie a small knot at the top. For extra charm, I slid on the homemade clay bead before tying.

If you prefer a more elegant look, use velvet ribbon or silk cord instead of twine.

Step 10: Display or Gift!

A white, house-shaped ornament labeled "The Saeta Family" hangs from a garland of greenery with a string light above it.

Your ornament is now ready to hang on your Christmas tree, tie onto a wrapped present, or gift to family and friends.

These make especially thoughtful gifts for newlyweds, new homeowners, or families celebrating a milestone year. Pair one with a handwritten note for a personal, heartfelt touch.

Three rolls of patterned wrapping paper and one partially unrolled sheet with a wrapped gift placed on top, featuring floral designs in pink, white, and green tones—perfect for pairing with glass ornaments for a festive touch.

Creative Co-Op 3 Styles Wrapping Paper Sheets with Flora and Fauna Pattern

A close-up of a roll of red wrapping paper with scattered gold and silver specks, perfect for pairing with festive gift tags.

MAYPLUSS Gift Wrapping Paper Roll

A painted ornament of a snow-covered house with two decorated trees, wreaths, and red string for hanging.
Creative Co-Op Decorative Printed Paper House Shaped Gift Bag

Tips for Success

  • Use even pressure when stamping to keep letters uniform.
  • Test first — roll out a small scrap of clay and practice stamping before working on your main piece.
  • Keep clay sealed — air-dry clay can dry out quickly, so cover any unused portions tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Customize endlessly! Add hearts, stars, or small cut-outs with mini cookie cutters for variation.

Variations to Try

Once you’ve made a few, you’ll want to experiment! Here are some fun ideas:

  • Monogram ornaments — instead of the full name, stamp just the family’s initials.
  • Address ornaments — stamp “123 MAIN ST.” for a sweet housewarming gift.
  • Baby’s first Christmas — stamp the baby’s name and year for a keepsake.
  • Pet ornaments — make one for each furry family member!

You can also use colored clay, metallic paint, or even gently press dried botanicals into the surface for texture before sealing.

How to Package and Gift

A ceramic house-shaped ornament labeled "The Ebner Family," decorated with two small model trees, wrapped in clear plastic with twine.

If you’re giving these ornaments as gifts, presentation makes all the difference. Here’s how I like to wrap them:

  • Place the ornament in a small white jewelry box lined with shredded kraft paper or a bit of soft tissue.
  • Tie the box with jute twine or ribbon and add a sprig of greenery or a cinnamon stick.
  • For a finishing touch, attach a little tag that says “Handmade with love.”
Two decorative rectangular boxes with floral and leaf patterns, wooden buttons, and loops for closure, shown from a front and side angle.

Creative Co-Op Floral Wide Paper Gift Boxes Set
A stack of white gift tags with gold text, some reading "MERRY," alongside cream ribbon ties—perfect for pairing with your favorite glass ornaments.

Christmas Gift Tags

A spool of red and white twisted baker's twine, neatly wound into a cylindrical shape, perfect for adding a festive touch when wrapping gifts or hanging glass ornaments.

Red and White Twine

You could even create a small set — one for each family member — and box them together as a beautiful heirloom-style gift.

Why Handmade Matters

There’s something special about the slow process of making by hand. In a world filled with store-bought decorations, a simple clay ornament carries warmth that can’t be replicated. Each little letter pressed into the clay, each brushstroke of paint, tells a story of care and creativity.

When I hang these on our Christmas tree, I’m reminded that home isn’t just a place — it’s the people we love, the traditions we create, and the joy we share through handmade touches.

Every year, I look forward to A Handmade Christmas because it brings me back to that spirit — the magic of making, the joy of giving, and the beauty of simple things crafted with heart.

Final Thoughts

Two house-shaped clay ornaments labeled "The BYRD Family" and "The SAETA Family" lie on a wooden surface, surrounded by green and gold baubles and small decorative trees.

These Family Christmas Ornaments are proof that meaningful doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few materials and a bit of creativity, you can make something beautiful that will last for years to come.

Whether you create one ornament or a dozen, I hope this project inspires you to slow down, get your hands a little messy, and fill your holiday season with handmade joy.

So gather your clay, roll up your sleeves, and start crafting — your family story deserves a place on the tree this Christmas.

A small artificial Christmas tree with pine cones and yellow lights, placed in a metallic bucket-style pot, accented with festive gift tags for a charming holiday touch.

Small Christmas Tree 24 inch

A slim, artificial, pre-lit Christmas tree stands in a bright room with white walls and a large window.

Best Choice Products Pre-Lit Sparse Christmas Tree

A tall, snow-dusted Christmas tree with sparse branches is decorated with white lights and placed in front of a white paneled wall. Several wrapped gifts are beneath the tree.

Balsam Hill 6.5ft Pre-Lit Frosted Alpine Balsam Fir Tree

Ceramic model of a green house with a cream-colored roof, windows, and a front door decorated with a wreath and red bow.
Creative Co-Op 4′ L x Hand-Painted Stoneware House
Three decorative, house-shaped ornaments with leaf and berry patterns in red, blue, and green, arranged in order of increasing size from left to right.
Creative Co-Op Printed Paper Mache Houses
A thin branch is suspended horizontally against a plain background, with a string of metallic and air dry clay star-shaped ornaments draped across it.

Creative Co-Op 72 Inch Cardboard Glitter Star Garland

A wire star sculpture with multiple points sits atop a wooden log base, accompanied by delicate glass ornaments, displayed against a plain white background.

Creative Co-Op Multidimensional Metal Star

A brown storage box with empty compartments sits next to nine festive glass ornaments in red and green on a light surface.

Creative Co-Op 2′ H Embossed Mercury Glass Ornaments

A round, white glass ornament with faint brownish swirl and leaf patterns, suspended by a thin string attached to a black cap at the top.

Creative Co-Op 6″ Round Mercury Glass Ornament

Anthro Inspired Christmas

A collection of Christmas-themed holiday decorations and home decor items including pillows, stockings, trees, wreath, candles, and ornaments, styled in an Anthropologie-inspired design.
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Sixteen Weeks of A Handmade Christmas

Here are the first seven weeks of A Homemade Christmas. Can you believe I have nine more still to share!

Four ceramic house-shaped ornaments labeled with family names are arranged on a white surface among gold and green Christmas baubles.
Week eight
A clear round ornament filled with dried white and yellow flowers hangs from a white ribbon, with green pine needles above.
Week seven
A white bowl holds green, red, and silver ornaments. Beside it are two gingerbread house-shaped ceramic dishes, one with patterns and one decorated as a house, on a red cloth.
Week six
Two decorative fabric Christmas trees on white stands sit on a table beside green garland and three ornaments on a green tray in a cozy, well-lit room.
Week five
A gift wrapped in red floral paper with a large red ribbon and bow, decorated with a round ornament featuring pink flowers; similar ornaments surround the gift.
Week four
Three handmade napkin rings—one green with a floral pattern, one white with "LESLIE" embossed, and one pink with a dragonfly—rest on folded patterned napkins.
Week three
Four hand-painted Christmas ornaments with red, green, and yellow floral designs are arranged in a row on a light wooden surface.
Week two
Twelve hand-embroidered fabric ornaments, each depicting a different scene from "The Twelve Days of Christmas," are arranged on a light surface surrounded by greenery.
Week one
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Five house-shaped clay ornaments labeled with different family names are arranged among green and gold Christmas baubles and small decorative trees on a white surface.

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One Comment

  1. Did you use the white or natural clay? I am so excited to try making these. I’m planning on making these with my grandkids for gifts for their parents.

    Reply

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